Jane Evelyn Gorton

Jane E. Gorton, 70, Emporia, Kansas, passed away surrounded by her family at home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.

Jane Evelyn Russell was born in Evansville, Indiana on January 15, 1956, the daughter of William and Velma (Reasoner) Russell. Jane married Christopher Gorton at First Southern Baptist Church, Fort Scott, Kansas on November 20th, 1976. She is survived by her husband Christopher; sons; Nathan Gorton, Wyatt Gorton, Eudora, Kansas, and Lucas (Casie) Gorton, Emporia, Kansas, brothers; Paul (Cindy) Russell, Fort Scott, Kansas, Sam (Debra) Russell, Salina, Kansas, Rod (Rene’) Russell, Lee’s Summit, Missouri, and Phil (Misty) Russell, Parsons, Kansas, grandchildren; Logan Thomas, Alyssa Miller, Chloe Gorton, Ryker Gorton, Haley Gorton, Dontae Scott, Blakely Gorton, Nathalie Gorton, and Mykus Gorton. Jane’s first great-grandchild is on the way and is expected in July.

She was preceded in death by her parents, brother; Welsey, and Grandson; Skyler Gorton.

Jane received her LPN from Fort Scott Community College. She started her career at Mercy Hospital, Fort Scott, spent a couple years at Emporia Presbyterian Manor as well as local medical offices, however, she spent the majority of her career, 40 years, at Newman Regional Health. Jane loved being a nurse. She enjoyed taking care of patients, interacting with her co-workers, and being able to help those in need. Jane retired in 2022 to care for her mother.

She was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene, Emporia (40 years). She was a Christ follower who urged others to do the same. She enjoyed talking about Jesus to anyone who would listen, whether that be a patient, a stranger, or a neighbor. Her one wish was that her children and grandchildren would follow her on her walk with the Lord.

Jane enjoyed reading, high priced coffee, dinners twice a week with friends, vacations to Branson, playing cards, bible study, and working outside in her yard. Although she enjoyed all of this, what brought her the most joy was spending time with her family. Having her children and grandchildren gathered telling stories about their lives and just simply spending time together. Her heart was full in the final year, up to becoming ill, taking care of her youngest grandson, Mykus.

Cremation is planned. A Celebration of Life will be Sunday, April 12, 2026 at 4:00pm, at the First Church of the Nazarene, Emporia, Kansas, conducted by Pastor Paul Meinke, of the church. Family and friends will gather in the Potter-Veath Center (across the parking lot), following the service, to share stories and visit.

A memorial has been established for the Gideon’s International Bible Society. Contributions may be sent to Roberts-Blue-Barnett Funeral Home, PO Box #275, Emporia, Kansas 66801.